Kettlebell Step Side-Squat
Strengthen legs & glutes with Kettlebell Step Side-Squats! Improve balance & coordination in this effective lower body exercise.
The Kettlebell Step Side-Squat is a compound exercise that mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and core. You'll need: kettlebells.
Required Equipment

Kettlebell Step Side-Squat Muscles Worked
Primary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)
Secondary
Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Obliques
Kettlebell Step Side-Squat Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Kettlebell Step Side-Squat
Starting Position:
Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.
If using a kettlebell, hold it close to your chest with both hands, keeping your elbows down.
Step to the Side:
Take a controlled step to your right with your right foot.
As you step, shift your weight onto your right leg.
Squat Down:
Bend your right knee and lower your body into a squat position, ensuring your knee stays aligned with your ankle.
Keep your left leg straight and your left foot planted.
Hold the Position:
Hold the squat for a moment, engaging your core and keeping your chest up.
Return to Starting Position:
Press through your right heel to stand back up while bringing your right foot back to the starting position.
Repeat on the Left Side:
Step to your left with your left foot, shifting your weight onto your left leg.
Repeat the squat on this side.
Repetitions:
Perform 8-12 repetitions on each side, alternating between right and left.
Breathing:
Inhale as you step and lower into the squat.
Exhale as you return to the starting position.
Tips:
Keep your back straight and avoid leaning forward.
Engage your core for stability throughout the movement.
Start without a kettlebell if you are a beginner to master the form first.
Kettlebell Step Side-Squat FAQs
What muscles does the Kettlebell Step Side-Squat work?
The Kettlebell Step Side-Squat mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and core. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and quadriceps femoris.
What equipment do you need for the Kettlebell Step Side-Squat?
Kettlebells.
Is the Kettlebell Step Side-Squat a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Kettlebell Step Side-Squat go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Kettlebell Step Side-Squat variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Dumbbell Side-Step Goblet Squat, Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge, Kettlebell Forward-Backward Goblet Lunge and Kettlebell Lateral Goblet Step-Up.
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